Introduction
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is facing intense backlash from the Opposition over reports that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal may be nominated to the Rajya Sabha from Punjab. The move has sparked controversy, with opposition parties accusing AAP of using Punjab as a political stepping stone for Kejriwal amid legal troubles.
Key Highlights
📌 AAP may nominate Kejriwal to Rajya Sabha from Punjab
📌 Opposition calls it an ‘escape route’ from legal troubles
📌 Congress, BJP, and Akali Dal slam AAP for ‘betraying’ Punjab voters
📌 AAP yet to confirm the decision officially
Why the Controversy?
🔹 Legal Challenges: Kejriwal is facing multiple ED and CBI investigations related to the Delhi liquor policy case. The Opposition claims AAP is looking for a safe route to shield him from legal troubles.
🔹 Punjab’s Political Landscape: AAP came to power in Punjab with a huge mandate, promising a new political culture. Critics argue that nominating Kejriwal would be a betrayal of Punjab’s interests and a move to consolidate power nationally.
🔹 Rajya Sabha Strategy: Punjab has three vacant Rajya Sabha seats, and AAP has the numbers to elect its own candidates. However, sending Kejriwal instead of a Punjab-based leader is being seen as ignoring local leadership.
Opposition’s Reactions
🟥 Congress:
Senior Congress leader Amarinder Singh Raja Warring slammed AAP, calling it a “direct insult” to the people of Punjab. “Did Punjabis vote for AAP so that Delhi’s CM could enter Rajya Sabha from Punjab?” he questioned.
🟡 BJP:
The BJP labeled this move as a “desperate attempt to escape corruption cases”. BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa said, “Kejriwal should face investigations instead of running to Parliament for immunity.”
🟤 Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD):
The SAD accused AAP of treating Punjab as a “political laboratory” for Delhi politics. Senior SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema remarked, “AAP has failed to deliver in Punjab and is now using the state for its survival.”
AAP’s Response
🔹 While AAP has not officially confirmed Kejriwal’s nomination, party insiders claim the idea is being actively considered.
🔹 AAP leaders defend the move, saying Kejriwal’s presence in Rajya Sabha would help push Punjab’s issues at the national level.
🔹 Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has not yet commented on the matter, leading to further speculation.
What’s Next?
✔️ If AAP officially nominates Kejriwal, it could lead to a political storm in Punjab.
✔️ Legal experts argue that being a Rajya Sabha MP does not provide immunity from criminal cases.
✔️ The BJP and Congress may use this move to corner AAP ahead of the 2024 elections.
Conclusion
AAP’s possible decision to send Arvind Kejriwal to Rajya Sabha from Punjab is already a major political flashpoint. While AAP views it as a strategic move, the Opposition sees it as a betrayal of Punjab’s voters. The coming days will determine how this unfolds in both Delhi and Punjab politics.
